Local Health Center Fights to Close Critical Health Care Gap
Originally founded as Summit Community Care Clinic, Elevated Community Health began with a focus on filling critical gaps in care for the uninsured and underinsured
Courtesy photo
Since opening its doors in 1993, Elevated Community Health has grown from a modest, volunteer-run clinic in Summit County into a leading provider of accessible, innovative care for the entire region. Through every change, its mission has remained constant: to deliver exceptional, patient-centered health services for all — a mission that’s more vital than ever as health care costs continue to climb.
Originally founded as Summit Community Care Clinic, the organization began with a focus on filling critical gaps in care for the uninsured and underinsured. Over the years, that mission has expanded to serve everyone, offering a full spectrum of health services — from primary care and pharmacy to dental, vision and mental health — across Summit, Lake and Park counties.
“Regardless of your insurance — excellent, limited or none — you’re part of this community, and we’re here for you,” said Josh Cogdill, CEO of Elevated Community Health. “Insurance status doesn’t matter to us. Caring for you does.”
The nonprofit’s dedication to meeting community needs is reflected in the recognition it has received from local residents. Elevated Community Health earned multiple Best of Summit nominations and awards in this year’s contest.
“We treat with compassion,” said Megan Wood, who was voted Summit County’s Best Physician Assistant. “I think that we’re all working at this clinic because we believe very strongly in the mission. We want to help people.”
For Wood, one of the most important aspects of care is building strong relationships with her patients. She works to create a solid foundation of trust in order to provide the best care possible. Along with several other providers, she speaks Spanish, recognizing how invaluable it is to communicate with patients in their own language.
Wood said all of the providers she works with share a deep commitment to the nonprofit’s mission.
“I work with these amazing people whose hearts are in the right place,” Wood said.
Other 2025 Best of Summit awards and nominations included: Colleen Ihnken, 2nd Place Best Nurse Practitioner; Dr. Joanna Kopytek, finalist for Best Dentist; and Dr. Kacy Cowie, a Top 5 Doctor. Elevated Community Health was also a finalist for Best Dental, Best Primary Care, Best Doctor’s Office, Best Mental Health Provider and is a Top 5 Pharmacy.
Elevated Community Health has grown from a modest, volunteer-run clinic in Summit County into a leading provider of accessible, innovative care for the entire region.Courtesy photo